Shirley and I have been planning for the forthcoming validation events for six new NPAs.

On Monday, 1 June, there will be two validations events – one in the morning and one in the afternoon to validate the following new NPAs:

• Software Development (Level 5)
• Website Enterprise (Level 5)
• Computer Hardware and Software (Level 5)
• Digital Media Production (Level 6)
• Digital Media Photography (Level 5)
• Social Software (Level 4)

We have got Panel members identified, including college, industry and Sector Skills Council representatives so everything is in place.

I’m hoping for a successful outcome so that we can make these awards available to centres as soon as possible.